How to Treat Diabetic Ulcers

Diabetic ulcers should never be taken lightly. Because diabetes impairs both healthy nerve function and your body’s natural ability to heal itself, even small cuts, bruises, and blisters can become a major problem in a hurry. If an ulcer or wound develops and doesn’t seem to be healing, immediate treatment is needed to prevent the chance that the wound will become infected, spread, and ultimately force us to amputate.

Treatment for diabetic ulcers is principally geared toward protecting the wound from further damage and bringing healing as fast as possible. The main reason for this, of course, is so that you can keep your foot and return to full, healthy function!

When you come see us, we’ll start by cleaning up the wound—a process called debridement. Dead skin, bacteria, and other particles need to be removed from the area so that they don’t get in the way of the healing process. Once the ulcer is clean, we’ll apply any medications you need (including antibiotics if there is an infection) and dress the wound to protect it.

Treatment doesn’t stop there, though. In order to ensure proper healing, you’ll need to follow some home care procedures as well. For starters, it’s important to keep weight off the foot while it heals. While recovery can be slow, and we’re sure you’re looking forward to getting up and about again, please use the provided crutches or wheelchair for as long as prescribed. Furthermore, maintaining healthy blood sugar levels are critical in order to keep the healing process running efficiently.

You will also likely need to replace your dressings according to a specific timetable between follow-up appointments with us, to ensure the ulcer is still clean and protected. We’ll carefully review all the instructions with you, as well as any caregivers who may be helping you, so you can do this safely and correctly.

Recovering from a diabetic ulcer takes time and work, but in order to spare you from an amputation, the work is well worth it. If you have diabetes and detect any problems with skin breakdown in your feet, please call Brook Valley Podiatry right away for the treatment you need. Call us at (845) 352-7507 for an appointment in Spring Valley, NY or fill out our online form.